Fungal Culture, Vaginal
Use
This test is useful for monitoring therapy for vulvovaginitis, managing chronic recurring disease, and determining the etiology of infectious vaginitis when other tests have been uninformative. Candidal vulvovaginitis is considered to be one of the most frequent vaginal infections, with species like Candida albicans, Candida glabrata, and Candida tropicalis being frequently isolated.
Special Instructions
Specimen source information (anatomic body site) is required for test processing. Ensure that the specimen arrives within 24 hours of collection. If not ordering electronically, complete and send a Microbiology Test Request form with the specimen.
Limitations
The presence of Candida species on culture may be meaningless or misleading unless clinical factors are considered, as up to 20% of healthy women may have yeast cells as part of their normal vaginal flora. Therefore, meaningful diagnosis requires demonstrable yeast in the affected area along with clinical symptoms that are consistent with the disease.
FDA ApprovedNew York Approved
Methodology
Culture-based
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 51723-5
- 51723-5
Result Turnaround Time
3-4 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Other
Volume
Not provided
Minimum Volume
Not provided
Container
Culture transport swab (noncharcoal)
Collection Instructions
Before collecting specimen, wipe away any excessive secretion or discharge. Obtain secretions from the mucosal membrane of the vaginal vault with a sterile swab. If both smear and culture or bacterial and fungal cultures are requested, collect a second swab to maximize test sensitivity.
Causes for Rejection
Viral transport media, Petri dish, Aptima swabs
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 7 days |
| Refrigerated | 7 days |